College of Education

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Overview

Preparing Future Educators With Quality Education Programs

For over 70 years, GCU has proudly maintained its rich heritage as a teachers’ college, both on campus and online. Our College of Education continues to prepare educators, school administrators and policymakers who strive to deliver quality education and help enrich lives across a variety of academic and community settings.

While GCU's College of Education is committed to nurturing your development as an educator, our dedication to your education extends beyond the classroom. We teach the spirit of servant leadership, innovation and global contribution into each program through One Foundation, our Christian worldview. Education and teaching degrees are offered online, on campus or in the evening for your convenience.

About the College

National Center for Teacher Preparation

To address the teacher shortage in America, GCU has created the National Center for Teacher Preparation. This center is part of our pledge to make higher education more accessible so you can transform your experience as a working paraprofessional into a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Our generous initial teacher licensure scholarship is available to help make your bachelor’s or master’s tuition affordable so you can become a full-time, licensed, salaried teacher with paid benefits.

GCU’s College of Education Mission

Minor Degrees for Education Majors

Programs

Choose From Online, On-Campus or Evening Degree Options

Choosing one of GCU’s education programs can equip you with a firm foundation to shape tomorrow’s future. Implement strategies that can help you think more critically and potentially position yourself for a career with an undergraduate degree in education. Integrate philosophy with practical knowledge within one of our master’s in education degree programs. You can also enhance your knowledge in specific areas with a certificate program or individual education courses.

Education Degrees

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50 Matching Degrees

College:College of Education

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

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Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

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Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies

Initial Program – Does Not Lead to Initial Teacher Licensure

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Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

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Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Special Education

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

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Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

with an Emphasis in Christian Education

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

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Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

with an Emphasis in English as a Second Language

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

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Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

with an Emphasis in STEM

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

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Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

with an Emphasis in Teaching Reading

Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure

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Careers

Career Pathways After Graduating College for Teaching

Education degree programs that lead to licensure in the College of Education are approved by the Arizona State Board of Education.

Why do future educators choose GCU?

GCU’s College of Education offers initial teacher preparation options for bachelor’s and master’s education degrees.
Field experience, exam preparation and student teaching are part of your learning journey.
The curriculum for our education programs online and on campus align with national standards.

Canyon Teacher Residency Pathways

GCU’s Canyon Teacher Residency Pathways can develop and enrich your teaching career. Our college education programs can equip teacher candidates with the skills to work toward a career in the field as substitute teachers, tutors, teacher aides or paraprofessionals while working toward teacher certification and degree completion. These hands-on residency pathways provide experience that can help in your own classroom one day.

Continuing Education Credits for Teachers

Why GCU

Multiple AAQEP Accredited Degrees

GCU maintains its standing as a participating member of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), an accrediting body acknowledged at the national level by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. The College of Education also aligns its curriculum with the standards set by the Higher Learning Commission, national accreditors and professional affiliates. These standards help us produce credible, qualified teachers and professionals through our education degree programs online and on campus.

Tuition, Financing and Scholarships

Look through our resources and information on the tuition rates for your degree program and how GCU can help with paying for college through scholarships and financial aid.

View Tuition and Financial Aid

Admission Requirements

For more information on the requirements for admission and the steps needed for the application process, visit our admission page.

View Admission Requirements

GCU’s College of Education Pledge and Promise

As a Christian university, Grand Canyon University and the College of Education take a proactive approach to developing students’ servant leadership skills and the growth of our alumni in educational settings. While the college’s accredited programs are designed to prepare and equip students for a career in the field of education, we (faculty, staff and college leaders) understand the unique opportunities and challenges a career in education might present. We strive to assist all College of Education graduates who need additional support or who are experiencing challenges in an educational setting and since 1984, we have upheld this promise. Support might include content-area teaching materials, certification testing resources, course curriculum assistance or faculty mentoring. To honor this promise, the College of Education asks graduates to pledge to uphold a high level of excellence in their educational setting.

Our Pledge

Learning

Leading

Serving

We believe in the spirit of servant leadership and are committed to serving all candidates by empowering them to work toward becoming global contributors who strive to change their communities and the world. As faculty, staff and candidates, we believe in serving educational communities with an innovative and adaptive spirit. Leading with a strong dedication to professional conduct, ethics and respect for the diversity of others, excellence for all may be achieved.

Integration of GCU’s Christian Identity in Curriculum

GCU curriculum ensures that spiritual and ethical values are woven into the educational experience, fostering a holistic approach to learning. This initiative aims to nurture not only academic growth but also the development of character and values within students.

How does the College of Education faculty integrate GCU’s Christian identity and mission into the curriculum?

How does a student in the College of Education directly benefit from GCU’s mission? How do they contribute to GCU’s mission while a student?

Students in an education program can directly benefit from GCU’s mission by becoming an educational innovator that can adapt and change to serve the deep needs of communities. This takes place through innovative, faith-integrated curriculum, instruction and engaging, hands-on learning opportunities such as practicum field experience and student teaching. Students can contribute to GCU’s mission by engaging in active learning through courses taught by knowledgeable education faculty and demonstrate their learning both in the classroom and out in the field.

What is the student experience like in the College of Education as it relates to One Foundation?

Education students can experience GCU’s One Foundation principles through an integration of faith into the curriculum. This is demonstrated by the education faculty who strive to model virtuous behavior and the integration of virtues into the curriculum, which are found in the College of Education’s Professional Dispositions of Learners, as well as the nationally recognized Model Code of Ethics for Educators (MCEE).

How does the College of Education uniquely promote the principles of human flourishing?

The education program at GCU promotes the principles of human flourishing by equipping students to go into the field of education to serve the needs of their communities. This is accomplished through a wide variety of education-based program offerings that are innovative and adaptive to the current educational climate. These programs are taught by faculty who seek to help all students flourish in their chosen program and future profession.

What are the advantages of combining a theology minor with a major in education?

Education majors, whether they focus on secular, Christian or special education, can find value in a theology minor. It can enhance their ability to incorporate ethical considerations and moral values into their teaching.

For those in Christian education, it directly supports curriculum development and spiritual mentorship. In secular settings, the knowledge from a theology minor can help educators promote an inclusive environment that respects diverse religious views.

FAQ

FAQs for College of Education Programs

Discover concise answers to common queries about our College of Education, offering insights into our programs, faculty and resources. This section is designed to comprehensively address your questions and hopefully provide a deeper understanding of education programs at GCU.

Is a teachers’ college only for teachers?

Teacher colleges can offer opportunities not only for aspiring educators but also for individuals who seek alternative career paths within the educational sphere, catering to those who may not necessarily envision themselves solely in a teaching role.^{(See disclaimer 1)} Education administration programs are also offered within the purview of a "teachers’ college." These programs can cater to individuals aspiring to administrative roles within educational institutions, debunking the myth that such colleges are solely designated for teacher training.

What types of college education programs are available at GCU?

At GCU, an array of education programs can cater to various career paths in the education field. These often encompass bachelor’s and master’s degrees, certificate programs, and individual courses specifically designed for aspiring educators or those seeking a teaching career. Our programs span different levels and types, including early childhood education, secondary education, special education and educational administration degrees. These diverse offerings can help you specialize in your chosen area within the realm of education.

Can I go to college for teaching online?

Yes, in part. GCU aims to provide an extensive online learning platform offering convenience and flexibility for individuals pursuing an education degree. Opting for an online education program may help you access quality courses from anywhere with internet connectivity, accommodating diverse schedules and lifestyles. This approach caters to those seeking a flexible learning environment while maintaining the same curriculum standards as on-campus programs. However, many teaching programs also include practicum/field experience hours that require in-person and hands-on experiences.

GCU's online education degrees can empower students to engage with comprehensive coursework, experienced faculty and diverse resources while balancing other commitments, making it an appealing choice for those aiming to pursue their education degree in a more flexible manner.

Do you need a degree to apply for a teaching certificate?

Yes, but it varies based on the state and the type of teaching certification you're pursuing. Generally, a bachelor's degree is required for most certificate programs in teaching.^{(See disclaimer 2)} However, if you completed a bachelor's degree in a subject other than education, there may be avenues available for you to pursue a teaching certificate in education, such as earning a master’s degree that leads to licensure.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

What are the education requirements for teachers?

Education requirements for teachers can vary by occupation and the state in which you plan to teach in, so be sure to check with your state’s department of education. For example:

High school teachers typically must have at least a bachelor’s degree and public-school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license.^{(See disclaimer 4)}
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers must also complete a teacher education program to obtain certification to teach.^{(See disclaimer 5)}
Postsecondary teachers often need a PhD or doctoral degree in their field, although some at community colleges may qualify with a master's degree, while others might require substantial work experience in their field of expertise.^{(See disclaimer 6)}

Start Your Journey Today

If you are ready to apply for GCU's College of Education or have additional questions about enrolling into a teaching degree program, contact us today!

Apply Now

If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the Accreditation and Compliance/State Disclosures link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state’s licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).

Drexel University School of Education. (n.d.). What To Do With A Teaching Degree Besides Teach. Retrieved Dec. 12, 2023.
Vilorio, D. (2016, June). Teaching for a Living. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved Dec. 13, 2023.
Indeed. (2023, Jan. 26). How To Get a Teaching Certificate After Earning a Bachelor's Degree. Retrieved Dec. 13, 2023.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Sept. 6). How to Become a High School Teacher. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Dec. 13, 2023.

College of Education

College of Education